Tag Archives: infotainer

ZENEC’s 2-DIN infotainer for the AUDI A3 combines the latest multimedia functions with optimal in-vehicle integration and can be easily upgraded to a naviceiver

Z-E3150: Infotainer for AUDI A3

Multimedia specialist ZENEC expands its product range with another vehicle-specific E>GO infotainer: the Z-E3150 from the Essential II Series is the optimal multimedia retrofit for all AUDI A3 8P/8PA models. Top DAB+ radio reception, comprehensive media compatibility and easy smartphone connection – the Z-E3150 is an allrounder that is conveniently controlled from the capacitive touch-sensitive 7″/17.8 cm screen.

PERFECT INTEGRATION IN THE AUDI A3 Radically simpler integration in the specific target vehicle is what distinguishes the E>GO series: a system solution specifically designed for the vehicle. The Z-E3150 is technically and visually tailored to the AUDI A3: due to its specific construction, design of the front control panel and the red/white switchable button illumination it blends in perfectly with the AUDI A3 8P/8PA models. Interfaced with the vehicle electronics via the CAN bus, it supports comfort functions like connection to the driver information system (FIS) or the multifunction steering wheel, and the display of OPS and ECON Climatronic.

MAKES EVERY TRIP MORE ENTERTAINING Watching DVDs, playing CDs or using a USB stick or smartphone for audio and video playback – no chance of getting bored with so many entertainment options on offer from the Z-E3150. Naturally you can also just listen to radio if you want – in top digital quality. The integrated DAB+ double tuner ensures interference-free reception and boasts Service Following, dynamic station list, MOT Slideshow and DLS text. A 10-band graphic EQ and the DSP based 5-channel time alignment offer comprehensive settings for optimal adjustment of the sound to personal preferences.

DREAM TEAM: E>GO & ANDROID SMARTPHONES Thanks to the integrated SmartLink Direct function Android smartphones can be used with the Z-E3150 reliably and directly in any AUDI A3. Simply dock your mobile phone via a USB connection to the E>GO – the screen content of the Android smartphone is then immediately mirrored on the display of the ZENEC infotainer. This enables all apps including the sat nav apps to be accessed without touching the mobile device – that is connected driving in a new dimension. The Z-E3150 supports the Made for iPod/iPhone functionality of Apple devices. Naturally the E>GO can also use Bluetooth handsfree for conveniently dealing with phone calls via the hands-free system, and streaming music.

Z-E3150: COMFORT AND SAFETY ZENEC’s new E>GO stands for driving comfort, and enhanced driving safety in the AUDI A3; and not only because of the uncomplicated, intuitive operation of the device while driving. The vehicle status indication shown on the display gives warning of any open doors, open trunk lid or open engine hood, and provides information about the state of the vehicle lighting. Plus there is a cockpit real time display of the actual vehicle data: the tank fill level in liters, the battery voltage, and the outside temperature are clearly presented on the display of the Z-E3150. In addition there are also indications showing if the driver’s seat belt is fastened or the parking brake is applied (depending on the build year of the A3 model).

UPGRADABLE: FROM INFOTAINER TO NAVICEIVER If the occasional use of sat nav apps via the smartphone is not enough, you can easily upgrade the Z-E3150 with the Z-EMAP50 navigation package, obtainable as an option, to a fully-fledged permanently installed in-car naviceiver. High resolution 3D maps with coverage for 47 European countries and more than 6.5 million Premium POIs, TMC, Text-to-Speech announcement of street names and a host of nav functions make this E>GO the perfect navigator. The maps can be updated for one year free of charge.

The brand Zenec stands for pure in-car multimedia. Moniceivers, naviceivers, roof mount and universal monitors sum to a well rounded portfolio of in-car products. Added to that are accessory components like rear view cameras and headphones. All Zenec devices are perfectly compatible with one another. The Zenec multimedia range is perceived to follow the edge of technology, but also to stand out with an exceptional price/performance value. Yet, quality before quantity is the other important maxim given, Zenec is strictly adhering to. In 2008, Zenec brought the first E>GO model onto the market, thereby immediately establishing a completely new category of device: the vehicle-specific naviceiver. E>GOs are a perfect fit – visually and technically – in the respective target vehicle, without additional bezels, adapters and hours of installation work. With the new line up 2018 there are E>GOs to fit into over 60 models of vehicle.

„Superb entertainment package at a sensational price“, is the verdict of the German Car & HiFi magazine (issue 05/2018) about XZENT’s multimedia systems, awarding it the ‚Price tip‘ accolade.

Price tip: XZENT X-422 and X-222

Launched in early summer, the two 2-DIN DAB+ infotainers X-422 and X-222 from multimedia specialist XZENT have now been thoroughly tested by the German Car & HiFi magazine in issue 05/2018. After an in-depth check out in a major test, both these systems were able to put up an all-round convincing performance. „Superb entertainment package at a sensational price“, is the verdict of the critical tech journalists on these new multimedia systems, awarding them the ‚Price tip‘ accolade to account for the outstanding price/performance.

WITH OR WITHOUT SAT NAV With the X-422 and X-222 there are two moniceivers on the test bench that are identical as far as features and design are concerned. The only difference is: With its integrated GPS receiver the X-422 can easily be upgraded to become a fully-fledged naviceiver. For 99 euros you get the navigation package for cars with Europe-wide 3D navigation on a microSD card. And for just under 200 euros there is the motorhome variant, which allows vehicle parameters such as vehicle height and weight to be entered as well as providing an additional camping POI database. „Together with the optional navigation software the XZENT X-422 forms a completely equipped infotainment system at a very attractive price“ say the Car & Hifi testers.

SUPERB SMARTPHONE INTEGRATION But even without the sat nav package comfortable navigation is still possible with either of these XZENT systems – with the aid of a compatible Android smartphone: „This is because the X-222 as well as the X-422 has Easy Connect“, the journalists explain. „With a suitable phone connected to one of the two USB ports at the rear you can mirror smartphone apps on the monitor of the car radio and control them via its touchscreen. This works just as well with the music player or Spotify as with Google Maps or other apps.“

SUPERB ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE The journalists are also convinced by the versatile media section of the two XZENT infotainers. Beside an FM tuner to receive classic radio programs, the systems are equipped with a DAB+ tuner that scored with the testers for „comfortable station search, Service Following and MOT Slideshow“. With two USB ports the moniceivers are well equipped for audio and video playback. Then there is the option for comfortable use of the mobile phone in the vehicle: „The devices also work together brilliantly with smartphones using a Bluetooth wireless connection to telephone and hear music.“ There is an HDMI interface for the connection of multimedia devices or mobile phones with an HDMI output.

COMFORTABLE OPERATION Car & HiFi particularly praise the ease of use of both systems, that have a large capacitive 6.5″/16.5 cm touchscreen together with a practical rotary volume control and sensor buttons: „The menus are clearly laid out, the touchscreen reacts promptly, and as a result overall control is smooth and intuitive“, according to the well-respected tech journalists. In conclusion, the testers attest to the versatile multimedia functions paired with ease of use and trouble-free in-vehicle integration of both systems, awarding them the ‚Price tip‘ accolade.

XZENT is a young brand that is focused exclusively on the „In-car Navigation and Multimedia“ sector. XZENT is the specialist for multimedia and navigation systems. As regards build quality and the range of features XZENT moni- and naviceivers are second to none and, with their sensational price/performance, are convincing right down the line. XZENT products are now firmly established in the market – this is also demonstrated by the many awards and impressive test reports appearing in the trade press in recent years for XZENT devices. XZENT products are distributed worldwide exclusively through the extensive ACR AG dealer network, Europe’s largest car media specialists. Among the ACR dealers you will also find a large range of accessories for XZENT systems: rear-view cameras, DAB+ and DVB-T tuners, and monitors as well as speakers and amplifiers.

The new infotainment benchmark for Golf V/VI and its relatives ZENEC’s multimedia navigation system for VW, Seat and Skoda is awarded the „Highlight“ accolade from Car&Hifi magazine (03/2018).

ZENEC Z-E2050 for vehicles from VW

In 2008 the Swiss car media specialist ZENEC launched the first vehicle-specific permanently installed navigation system in the E>GO range. Now in 2018 the E>GO is already in the fifth generation. The flagship of the new models, the Z-E2050 infotainer for Golf V and VI platforms, has been put through a tough test by the well-known Car & Hifi trade magazine in issue 03/2018. And with resounding success: „With the ZENEC Z-E2050 you get a brand-name device with first-class features and brilliant performance that is really easy to use at an amazingly good price“, is the verdict of the testers about the Z-E2050, awarding it the ‚Highlight‘ accolade.

SPECIALISED FOR VW, SEAT AND SKODA In the detailed test report Car & Hifi has particular praise for the perfect in-vehicle integration for which the ZENEC E>GO range is well known: „In terms of fit and electrical interfaces, including CAN bus adapters, the Z-E2050 is perfectly tailored to the Golf V/VI, and many other vehicles from the VW Group based on this platform.“ The latest ZENEC also integrates „perfectly with the VW on-board vehicle electronics“, according to the journalists. Depending on the original equipment of the vehicle, functions like steering wheel remote control, climate control, OPS parking radar, rear-view camera, and MFA+ are supported.

ATTRACTIVE FEATURES, ATTRACTIVE PRICE ZENEC’s new brand-name device is a hit with the testers with its „extremely attractive price“ of 559 euros: „This puts the Z-E2050 almost at the price level of cheap Chinese imports, and that with a full guarantee and access to a well-known European distributor if servicing is needed“. According to Car & Hifi ZENEC „really goes to town“ with the feature set – starting with the extraordinarily large 8-inch (20.3 cm) capacitive touchscreen. „In operation the display screen is brilliant and reacts promptly at the touch of a finger. Operation of all functions is smooth and trouble-free.“ Equipped with CD/DVD drive, microSD slot, two USB connections, and HDMI port, the Z-E2050 has all the multimedia tools on-board. Added to that is a receiver for DAB+ digital radio that the experienced testers certify as having „crystal clear noise-free reception“. The integrated Bluetooth unit also impresses these critical journalists: „Hands-free calling and music streaming function really well, offering every comfort.“

SMART RETROFIT NAVIGATION SYSTEM What particularly impressed the testers is the how really easy it is to upgrade the Z-E2050 to a sat nav system. Available in the basic version as a moniceiver for 559 euros, the infotainer can be easily expanded with the Europe-wide navigation software Z-EMAP50 (139 euros): „Just insert the SD card, and the ZENEC becomes an integrated navigation system at what is nevertheless still a very attractive total price of 700 euros.“ Yet even without the navigation package you can use the ZENEC as a turn-by-turn sign post. „This is possible thanks to the SmartLink function“ say the trade journalists, „that allows any app, including navigation, of a connected Android phone to be used on the ZENEC display.“ This is done by simply connecting the Android phone to one of the two USB ports so that the apps can be controlled directly from the ZENEC.

SUMMARY „The ZENEC Z-E2050 performed very well in our laboratory and field tests. And in the test lab too the ZENEC does not put a foot wrong“ is the final verdict of the testers regarding the performance of the new ZENEC device. „A big hit indeed!“ is how Car & Hifi summarizes it. „The Z-E2050 is the new infotainment benchmark for Golf V/VI and its relatives.“

The brand Zenec stands for pure in-car multimedia. Moniceivers, naviceivers, roof mount and universal monitors sum to a well rounded portfolio of in-car products. Added to that are accessory components like DAB+-tuners, rear view cameras and headphones. All Zenec devices are perfectly compatible with one another. The Zenec multimedia range is perceived to follow the edge of technology, but also to stand out with an exceptional price/performance value. Yet, quality before quantity is the other important maxim given, Zenec is strictly adhering to. In 2008, Zenec brought the first E>GO model onto the market, thereby immediately establishing a completely new category of device: the vehicle-specific naviceiver. E>GOs are a perfect fit – visually and technically – in the respective target vehicle, without additional bezels, adapters and hours of installation work. With the new line up 2017 there are E>GOs to fit into over 60 models of vehicle. Few car media brands have ever started out as successfully as Zenec. Today, Zenec has established itself as undisputed market leader for multimedia navigation and spots – according to the Association for Consumer Research (Gfk) – in the German speaking territories a market share in excess of 35%.

Intelligent retrofit: From XZENT there is now a versatile 2-DIN moniceiver that can be easily expanded into a sat nav system for cars or for motorhomes.

XZENT X-422: multimedia and navigation

XZENT has become one of the most successful brands in the car multimedia and navigation sector. With the X-422 XZENT now has a new 2-DIN DAB+ infotainer in its product range that not only impresses with modern entertainment functions, uncomplicated vehicle integration, and easy operation. The new XZENT is also an intelligent solution for those who want a versatile sat nav. With one of two navigation packages available as an option, the X-422 (retail price 399 euros) can easily be expanded to a well equipped naviceiver for cars (with X-MAP22FEU, retail price 99 euros) or motorhomes (with X-MAP22FEU-MH, retail price 199 euros).

MOBILE ENTERTAINMENT For multimedia playback the X-422 offers two USB ports supporting all the usual audio and video file formats. In addition, there is an HDMI interface for the connection of multimedia devices or smartphones with an HDMI output. The integrated DAB+ tuner with DAB Service Following, MOT Slideshow and DLS text ensures clear, stable digital radio reception. All functions can be comfortably controlled using the large capacitive 16.5 cm/6.5″ touchscreen with its four sensor buttons, and a practical volume control.

SMARTPHONE SPECIALIST The X-422 offers several options for using smartphones in the car in comfort – not just for making calls using the hands-free system or streaming music via Bluetooth. One of the two USB ports can also be used for connecting an Android smartphone. Via the Easy Connect function, apps installed on the Android smartphone including navigation apps can be mirrored on the display of the X-422 and controlled directly from the touchscreen. The second USB port provides for the connection of iOS based mobile devices, and supports the Made for iPod/iPhone functionality.

EXPANDABLE TO A NAVICEIVER If navigating via an app is not enough you can easily upgrade the X-422 to a fully-fledged naviceiver. For this XZENT provides two different navigation software packages on microSD card: the X-MAP22FEU for normal cars, and the X-MAP22FEU-MH for motorhomes. Both packages offer maps with coverage of 47 European countries, more than 6.5 million POI, realistic 3D rendering and Auto-Zoom, a lane assistant displaying freeway traffic signs, as well as free map updates for one year. The motorhome variant additionally has a camping POI package with 20,000 EU entries. To make navigation easier you can choose between different vehicle profiles. By setting the exact vehicle data such as height, width, length, and weight, routes can be precisely calculated, and unsuitable streets avoided.

XZENT is a young brand that is focused exclusively on the „In-car Navigation and Multimedia“ sector. XZENT is the specialist for multimedia and navigation systems. As regards build quality and the range of features XZENT moni- and naviceivers are second to none and, with their sensational price/performance, are convincing right down the line. XZENT products are now firmly established in the market – this is also demonstrated by the many awards and impressive test reports appearing in the trade press in recent years for XZENT devices. XZENT products are distributed worldwide exclusively through the extensive ACR AG dealer network, Europe’s largest car media specialists. Among the ACR dealers you will also find a large range of accessories for XZENT systems: rear-view cameras, DAB+ and DVB-T tuners, and monitors as well as speakers and amplifiers.

All entertainment options in a single device: with the X-222, XZENT has brought out a versatile 2-DIN DAB+ moniceiver for easy retrofitting at a reasonable price.

XZENT X-222: 2-DIN multimedia system

Originally a hot tip, the XZENT moni- and naviceivers are now among the top sellers Europe-wide, and are awarded accolades by the trade press for their outstanding price/performance. With the X-222 (retail price 299 euros) XZENT has now brought out a new 2-DIN multimedia system. True to the slogan „high quality at an amazingly reasonable price“, the X-222 impresses with its great visual design, modern entertainment, uncomplicated in-car integration, and easy operation.

COMFORTABLE AND VERSATILE That the X-222 is a really comfortable device to use, is revealed by the clear layout of the front, combining a large 16.5 cm/6.5″ touchscreen with four sensor buttons, and a practical volume control knob. The capacitive display reacts to just a light touch – a fingertip is enough. The strong brightness of the high resolution display, its crystal clear transparency, brilliant colors, and large contrast range ensure good readability even in difficult light conditions – a perfect platform for media content playback.

MULTIMEDIA SPECIALIST Beside the receiver for the analog FM radio, the X-222 has a DAB+ tuner for digital radio enjoyment. Equipped with DAB Service Following, DLS text, and the display of slideshows, the outstanding reception and great ease of use of this tuner make it convincing. For multimedia playback the X-222 offers two USB ports supporting all the usual audio and video file formats, including FLAC and WAV. In addition, there is a microSD card reader and an HDMI interface for the connection of multimedia devices or smartphones with an HDMI output.

SMARTPHONES – OPTIMAL USE With the powerful Bluetooth unit of the X-222 you can not only phone safely while on the move but also stream music in comfort. And it gets even better. Android smartphones can be connected to one of the USB ports. The Easy Connect function mirrors the smartphone apps, including sat nav apps, on the display of the X-222 so that they can then be comfortably controlled via touchscreen. The second USB port provides for the connection of iOS based mobile devices, and supports the Made for iPod/iPhone functionality.

SMART DETAILS The X-222 has two RCA inputs for connecting two cameras (front/rear or rear/rear). A practical feature here is the CAM button at the front that enables a direct manual control access to the camera system. This enables you to quickly switch to the camera image when driving ahead. For optimal in-car integration the illumination of the four sensor buttons of the X-222 can be adjusted to match the color of the cockpit instrument illumination for the particular vehicle.

The brand Zenec stands for pure in-car multimedia. Moniceivers, naviceivers, roof mount and universal monitors sum to a well rounded portfolio of in-car products. Added to that are accessory components like DAB+-tuners, rear view cameras and headphones. All Zenec devices are perfectly compatible with one another. The Zenec multimedia range is perceived to follow the edge of technology, but also to stand out with an exceptional price/performance value. Yet, quality before quantity is the other important maxim given, Zenec is strictly adhering to. In 2008, Zenec brought the first E>GO model onto the market, thereby immediately establishing a completely new category of device: the vehicle-specific naviceiver. E>GOs are a perfect fit – visually and technically – in the respective target vehicle, without additional bezels, adapters and hours of installation work. With the new line up 2017 there are E>GOs to fit into over 60 models of vehicle. Few car media brands have ever started out as successfully as Zenec. Today, Zenec has established itself as undisputed market leader for multimedia navigation and spots – according to the Association for Consumer Research (Gfk) – in the German speaking territories a market share in excess of 35%.

The very latest multimedia and infotainment technology on an impressively brilliant, extra large 8″/20.3 cm display for VW, Seat and Skoda – with the E>GO Z-E2050 the Swiss multimedia specialist ZENEC has set up another dazzling show of innovation. Building on ZENEC’s great experience, the new specialist device for VW is a system equipped with every refinement: consistent in-vehicle integration, the very latest in entertainment, uncompromising ease of use – in fact all-round innovative, and not just concerned with the smartphone interface. PURPOSE BUILT FOR VW, SEAT AND SKODA Perfect in-vehicle integration – as always with the ZENEC E>GO series. With its specific form of construction and button illumination that can be switched between red and white, the Z-E2050 – despite the huge 8″ display – fits tailor-made into the cockpit of diverse VW, SEAT and SKODA models (Golf 5 and Golf 6 platforms). Interfaced with the vehicle electronics via the CAN bus, it supports comfort functions like MFA/MFA+, multifunction steering wheel, and the display of OPS and Climatronic. ENTERTAINMENT 4.0 Digital radio reception with first class audio quality – the integrated DAB+ twin tuner enables crystal clear listening enjoyment, and scores with a dynamic station list, MOT Slideshow and DLS text. Listen to your favorite music like at home, or watch great movies, for media playback the Z-E2050 has a CD/DVD drive, and two USB ports. With its extra large capacitive 8″/20.3 cm touchscreen, the new ZENEC E>GO infotainer provides not only optimal video enjoyment: thanks to the huge display and clear menus, operation of the Z-E2050 is also completely safe and intuitive. CLEVER SMARTPHONE INTEGRATION With the Z-E2050 you can use your smartphone in the car in comfort – for example to make calls with the hands-free system, or streaming music via Bluetooth. But that’s not all: The Smartlink Direct function opens up completely new possibilities for integrating Android based smartphones. While Google Android Auto supports only a limited selection of apps, Smartlink Direct allows any installed app to be shown on the display of the Z-E2050 so you can make use of them too. Simply dock the cellphone, and the smartphone screen will be mirrored on the user interface of the Z-E2050. Smartlink Direct allows direct control of the apps from the touchscreen of the Z-E2050 – naturally also sat nav apps. IN NO TIME AT ALL: FROM INFOTAINER TO NAVICEIVER For VW drivers who do not want to just navigate per app but are looking for a versatile naviceiver, the new ZENEC is a clever solution: With the Z-EMAP50 sat nav package available as an option, the Z-E2050 can be upgraded to a navigation system with a full range of features. With detailed maps for 47 European countries, more than 6 million points of interest, 3D Auto-Zoom for junctions and roundabouts, and free map updates for one year, getting the latest navigation technology in your car is really very straightforward.

The brand Zenec stands for pure in-car multimedia. Moniceivers, naviceivers, roof mount and universal monitors sum to a well rounded portfolio of in-car products. Added to that are accessory components like DAB+-tuners, rear view cameras and headphones. All Zenec devices are perfectly compatible with one another. The Zenec multimedia range is perceived to follow the edge of technology, but also to stand out with an exceptional price/performance value. Yet, quality before quantity is the other important maxim given, Zenec is strictly adhering to. In 2008, Zenec brought the first E>GO model onto the market, thereby immediately establishing a completely new category of device: the vehicle-specific naviceiver. E>GOs are a perfect fit – visually and technically – in the respective target vehicle, without additional bezels, adapters and hours of installation work. With the new line up 2017 there are E>GOs to fit into over 60 models of vehicle. Few car media brands have ever started out as successfully as Zenec. Today, Zenec has established itself as undisputed market leader for multimedia navigation and spots – according to the Association for Consumer Research (Gfk) – in the German speaking territories a market share in excess of 35%.